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Natural PMS Remedies

Most women experience some level of PMS during their lifetime. For some, PMS can be excruciatingly painful, emotionally tumultuous and a significant burden. There are many different medications and therapies for dealing with PMS but many of them are unnatural. Women seeking a more natural solution, luckily, do have a few options.

  1. Dietary Changes

    • Having a healthy body is the number one defense against PMS. As most PMS symptoms are related to hormone imbalances and nutrient deficiencies, a simple change in your diet can relieve you of symptoms. Pay special attention to your fat intake, as unhealthy fats may lead to water retention; however, red meat is important due to the affect PMS has on iron intake. Caffeine and alcohol are diuretics and lead to nutrient excretion. It is important to limit magnesium excretion and sugar may increase this, while calcium tends to block magnesium absorption altogether. Salt and carbonated drinks can lead to or exacerbate bloating. Most important, try to increase iron intake as much as possible. A menstruating woman should aim for at least 18 grams of iron absorption daily.

    Physical Remedies

    • Regular exercise can keep the body fit and well-prepared for the onset of PMS. A brisk fifteen to twenty minute walk daily is all you need. Exercise helps to increase oxygen levels, eliminate toxins and increase nutrient absorption. Taking a hot bath or apply a heating pad to tender areas, such as an aching back or cramping abdomen, may relieve pain. Yoga can be utilized in many ways to help with PMS. The Cobra pose is known to help with pain, menstrual irregularities as well as constipation. The Wind Relieving pose helps with gas and bloating and the Corpse pose, along with yoga in general, can relax both your mind and body. If PMS causes muscle and joint pain or tenderness, a simple massage can ease these pains.

    Herbal Remedies

    • Herbal remedies are also a safe and easy means to curbing PMS symptoms. Angelica root and red raspberry can be used for cramps, valerian and peppermint tame moodiness, while fennel seed and safflower regulate hormones. Daily intake of one to two tablespoons of safflower oil can also help with tenderness and bloating, as does wild yam. The liver is an important tool in metabolizing estrogen; use milk thistle to cleanse the liver, improving its function. Women who experience migraines can use feverfew. There are many teas, such as kombucha, peppermint and chamomile that are known for their PMS-fighting abilities.

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